EP Wealth Advisors – a leading fee-only registered investment adviser (RIA) with a growing national footprint – has announced the acquisition of Executive Wealth Management (EWM) in Michigan. This partnership establishes EP Wealth’s first offices in Michigan. It strengthens the firm’s presence in the Midwest while adding approximately $1.6 billion in assets under management (AUM) and bringing EP’s total AUM to over $31 billion.
The partnership was finalized in December 2024 and was the last of EP’s all-time high seven integrations in the past year.
Executive Wealth Management has Michigan offices in Brighton, Northville, Jackson and Ludington, and locations in Florida and Colorado. And the partnership continues EP Wealth’s nationwide expansion and establishes a larger presence in the Midwest for the firm. Founded in 1985 by Bert Herzog, EWM has created a reputation for compassionate service and a disciplined investment management approach. EWM has provided clients with financial, tax, investment and legal offerings under one roof—aligning seamlessly with EP Wealth’s approach and client-centric philosophy.
This partnership adds nearly 50 current EWM team members to EP Wealth, bringing the firm’s employee base to more than 500, of which over 150 are advisors. And current EWM partners who will join EP Wealth’s roster of employee-owners include Albert Herzog III, Michael Chechel, Gregory Barber, Adam Kulesza, Michael Lay, Albert Herzog IV, Robert Larsen, Zachary Messina and Jimmie Plaskey. Additional EWM employees who will become employee-owners as a result of the acquisition are Todd Perry, Shawn Lawson, Nathan Larsen and John Barbrick.
Wealth Partners Capital Group (WPCG) assisted EP Wealth in the deal. The financial and legal terms of the deal were undisclosed.
KEY QUOTES:
“For nearly 40 years, EWM has provided clients with dedicated service and care while working towards financial goals together. When discussing the potential partnership, it was clear we share both a vision and commitment to enriching lives, so adding this team and their clients to the growing EP family is a natural fit.”
– Ryan Parker, CEO of EP Wealth
“This business is about people and putting clients first. If you aren’t focused on your clients, you’re in the wrong business. Joining EP Wealth is an exciting milestone that strengthens the legacy of Executive Wealth Management and enables us to continue serving our clients with excellence while gaining access to additional resources that enhance our capabilities.”
– Bert Herzog
“We’ve consistently supported the communities we serve and will continue to do so as part of EP Wealth. For years, we have been dedicated to building better futures for our clients and employees. This partnership will only strengthen our ability to do this and create even more opportunities to serve families throughout the Midwest.”
– Mike Lay, who will serve as a Regional Director at EP Wealth
